At children’s parties, party bags are usually a given. If you’re planning a party on a budget, you may think that skipping party bags altogether would be a great way to cut costs. However, we disagree. Why not create some budget-friendly ones instead? We’ve put together some cheap party bag ideas to have your guests grinning in gratitude without pulling too hard on your purse strings.
Balloons
You can buy these in bulk and put one or two in each party bag for more fun when they get home.
Temporary tattoos
What kid doesn’t love a tattoo on their arm or leg? Pick from a range of colours and themes and pop one in the bag.
Mini bouncy balls
Small and simple but provide hours of entertainment.
Chocolate gold coins
A sweet treat that won’t cost too many of your own coins.
Stickers
Children love to decorate their belongings with stickers. Easy to buy in bulk, you can place several designs in the bag.
Sweets
Individually wrapped candies are simple to buy in a box, and then you can evenly distribute them.
Friendship bracelets
These are a nice way of leaving an exclusive reminder of the party.
Finger puppets
Great for car journeys or keeping little one’s busy while on the go.
Mini bottle of bubbles
Children of all ages love bubbles, so a little pot in their party bag is sure to put a smile on their faces.
Rocks or pebbles
If you have the spare time on your hands, why not go foraging for unusual-looking rocks and pebbles to place in your party bags?
A pack of seeds
Place some seeds in a bag for little ones to grow their own plant, fruit or vegetables at home.
Mini pack of crayons, chalk or pencils
Arts and crafts always go down well with little ones.
Mini pot of slime or putty
Great for fidgety fingers; children love this stuff.
Fortune teller fish
Classically a Christmas cracker gift, this simple gimmick offers easy and cheap entertainment.
Pen or pencil toppers
Give them something to show off at school with a character topper or something cute and fluffy.
Slogan badge
Pick some positive quotes to give the kids’ self-esteem a boost.
Party blower
An age-old favourite and great for keeping kids entertained – party or no party.
Homemade treats
Whether you rustle up some brownies, cupcakes or cookies, it’s a fun way to not blow your budget.
Handwritten note
Have your own little one write up some thank you notes with a picture for guests to keep.
So, there you have it, plenty of budget-friendly party bag ideas to have your favours brimming. We hope you enjoy creating your party bags and that the little ones cherish the contents. Remember that it’s the thought that counts, so don’t get hung up on not being able to afford more impressive gifts. As kids’ author Roald Dahl @roald_dahl said: “…if you have good thoughts, it will shine out of your face like sunbeams…”